Bayer Leverkusen continues to strengthen its position in the transfer market by announcing the arrival of German-born Ghanaian Ernest Poku from AZ on Tuesday.
The 21-year-old right winger was signed for €12 million, including bonuses, and signed a contract that binds him to the club until June 2030. His Transfermarkt value is currently estimated at €4 million.
Ernest has a message for you, Werkself fans! 🗣️🤳#Poku2030 pic.twitter.com/xlWydg1XKx
— Bayer 04 Leverkusen (@bayer04_en) August 12, 2025
“Ernest Poku is an excellent wing player who will make a special contribution to our attack with his speed and dribbling ability,” said Bayer sporting director Simon Rolfes, describing the qualities of the youngster born in Hamburg. “He is tricky and assertive; with his pace and dynamism, Ernest will greatly expand our footballing options,” Rolfes added.
Poku earned 14 caps for the Dutch U21 team and made 48 appearances for Alkmaar in the Eredivisie and 10 appearances in the UEFA Europa League.
“Now I can hardly wait to make the jump to Leverkusen in the Bundesliga,” said Poku after signing the contract. “It’s a big club, a Champions League club! I’m happy that Bayer is giving me this opportunity.”
Poku joined AZ youth teams system in 2019.
